Helping Your Child Adopt a Rat

Helping your child adopt a rat can be a rewarding experience. Where do we go? Is my child ready for this? Should my child adopt a rat? These are likely some of the questions in your head while considering the process. As you will learn, advance preparation and knowing where to go (and not go) will be extremely helpful in helping your child adopt a rat.

Why rats make great pets for kids. Rats are sometimes misunderstood. But they can actually make wonderful pets for kids. They are very affectionate and calm animals and will visibly request attention with body language and behavioral habits. A rat will quickly learn its name, come when your child calls, and will have a special bond with its pet parent. Much like hamsters and other animals in the rodent family, a clean cage will be fairly easy to maintain. Because of the mild behavior rats usually have, they are not only great pets overall, but they can make great first pets for kids. Rats are happy to be held by their owners for hours, which lines up with the desire most kids have to hold an animal often.

Is your child ready to adopt a rat? Be sure your child has studied all the basics about rat care before ever adopting. Dietary needs, cage requirements, sources of entertainment, and bedding materials are the first things your child should know. In addition, learning the habits of the rat, as well as warning signs can help your child be adequately prepared. Licensed professionals are a great source for learning. Check with your local pet supply venues and shelters to see if they offer pet care classes. Books and articles from trusted sources will also help. If your child is regularly studying and generally enthused about adopting a rat or two, this is a readiness indicator.

Where should we go to adopt the rat? Pet stores, breeders, friends, rescue groups, and shelters are the most common ways to adopt a rat. Never bring a wild rat into your home, as they may carry diseases. Domesticated rats are entirely different from those in the wild. Adopting from shelters and rescue groups helps an animal in need and can help cut down on the need for mass breeding. Adopting from shelters also helps ensure your rat is properly vetted and has a medical guarantee.

What should my child know about the process? Taking home a new family member is exciting. Depending on how and where you decide to go, the process may consist of holding the rat and bonding, signing adoption papers, and discussing proper care. If the workers do not mention proper care at all, your rat may becoming from a questionable source. The workers should be knowledgeable and interested in making sure your family is the right fit.

*Always contact a licensed veterinarian for the health of your animals. The information above is not meant to replace the advice of a qualified professional and is derived solely from the author's own personal experiences.

More from Lyn:

Should I Let My Child Have a Pet Rat?

Misconceptions About Rats as Pets for Kids

Why Kids and Pets Make a Great Mix